Find a roof jack that fits your evaporative cooler and keeps rain out. This guide highlights five solid options for American homeowners and contractors. Best for straightforward, above-roof ventilations, these picks balance ease of installation, compatibility, and water sealing. The top buyers are DIY homeowners, remodeling pros, and campers needing reliable roof penetrations. Below is a quick summary table of the chosen products to compare key points at a glance.
| Product | Brand | Best For | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dial 18 in x 18 in Evaporative Cooler Roof Jack 78317 | Dial | Standard roof jack for 18″ x 18″ openings | Simple, direct fit |
| Yaocom 2 Pcs Roof Flashing Vent Boot | Yaocom | Flexible sizing for various pipe diameters | EPDM with aluminum base |
| Nordyne 104060024 Roof Jack Assembly | Nordyne | Furnace/retrofit environments | Genuine Miller part |
| Norcold 625161BBK Roof Jack Base | NORCOLD | Base component for custom setups | New |
| 7637 22.5 x 22.5 x 3.12 in. 6 Way Plastic Ceiling Grille | Generic | Evaporative cooler installations without ducting | Wide louvers, mobile home friendly |
Dial 18 in x 18 in Evaporative Cooler Roof Jack 78317
The Dial 18 in x 18 in Evaporative Cooler Roof Jack 78317 is designed for standard 18″ by 18″ roof openings. Best for homeowners seeking a straightforward, ready-to-install jack with a direct seal around the vent. This option is best for installations in dry climates where a simple, durable roof penetration is sufficient. Caution: verify compatibility with your specific evaporative cooler model before purchasing to ensure a snug seal around nonstandard openings.
Yaocom 2 Pcs Roof Flashing Vent Boot
Yaocom provides a 2-piece roof jack set with a generous range for pipe outer diameters from 1/4″ to 2″ and a base diameter of 4-3/4″. The EPDM material with an aluminum base creates a watertight seal suitable for metal and wood roofing. Best for projects with multiple pipe sizes or when installations require flexibility. Choose this if you need a flexible packing solution for retrofit or complex roof layouts. Limitation: EPDM flexibility may require extra attention in extreme heat to maintain a long-term seal.
Nordyne 104060024 Roof Jack Assembly
This Nordyne roof jack assembly targets furnace and related installations, offering compatibility across various Miller-made systems. Best for retrofit projects where original components exist, or where a genuine part match is critical for compatibility. It’s suitable for contractors needing reliable, standard-fit parts. Beware: being a specialized part, ensure exact model compatibility before ordering to prevent misfit.
Norcold 625161BBK Roof Jack Base
The Norcold 625161BBK Roof Jack Base functions as a base component for various installations. Best for those who plan a modular roof penetration and need a sturdy foundation. It’s a practical choice when you want to construct a custom rainproof seal with compatible add-ons. Limitation: ensure you have compatible components to complete the assembly, as this is a base part rather than a standalone complete jack.
7637 6 Way Plastic Ceiling Grille
The 7637 plastic ceiling grille is designed for evaporative cooler installations without ducting, including mobile homes. It features 14 adjustable louvers for airflow direction and is a practical, low-cost option for basic ceiling ventilation connections. Best for budget-conscious installs or temporary setups. Caution: not all roofs will accommodate the larger 22.5″ x 22.5″ opening; confirm dimensions before purchasing.
Buying Guide: Key Purchase Considerations
- Compatibility: Confirm opening dimensions, pipe diameter ranges, and base diameters against your evaporative cooler model and roof type.
- Material and sealing: EPDM, aluminum bases, and durable plastics offer different weather resistance. Choose a sealing method that matches your climate and roof design.
- Installation ease: Look for pre-cut openings, adjustable bases, and clear mounting instructions to reduce on-site work and leaks.
- Durability and weatherproofing: Consider UV resistance, wind-load tolerance, and potential need for sealing compounds or flashing accessories.
- Replacement parts: Favor brands with readily available replacement parts and documented part numbers to simplify future maintenance.
FAQ
- What is a roof jack used for in evaporative cooling systems?
It provides a sealed passage through the roof for vent pipes, reducing leaks and protecting insulation. - How do I know which roof jack size I need?
Measure the opening size and pipe diameter; match to the jack’s base and opening dimensions for a snug fit. - Are EPDM-based roof jacks suitable for metal roofs?
Yes, EPDM-based jacks with a rigid base can seal around penetrations in metal roofs when properly installed. - Can I reuse an old roof jack after roof replacement?
It depends on the condition of the seal and the compatibility with the new cooler setup; inspect for wear and leaks. - Do I need professional help for roof jack installation?
For complex roofs or high-risk penetrations, professional installation is advised to ensure proper sealing and safety. - What factors affect roof jack longevity?
Weather exposure, UV degradation, temperature cycling, and roof movement can impact long-term performance.
